What is Mediation?

Mediation is a process in which both parties have the opportunity to resolve all the issues between themselves. If you are represented by your lawyer, they attend with you. Otherwise, it is you and the other party. The mediator is a neutral party who helps facilitate a conversation and assists you in resolving the issues between you so that you can reach an agreement that you are both somewhat happy with. If you do not reach an agreement, it is a judge and court that decides, who has never met you, your children and has no interest in keeping either one of you happy, so it is almost guaranteed that a court order will leave both of you very unhappy. 

Mediation is required by the court in every contested family law case before a trial can be set. You have the option to select a mediator, but typically do not have the option to forgo mediation. 

How much will it cost?

Mediation fees start at $500 for the first two hour block of time, which has to be pre-paid. After that, your mediation is billed in half hour increments at a rate of $200 per hour. Typically, each party pays one half of the total fees, but it is not uncommon for one party to pay the fee in full as part of the negotiation. The entire mediation fee is due on the day of mediation.

What is included?

• Complete Meditation either via Zoom or in-person at the office
• A complete (or partial) Settlement Agreement, based on your specific needs
• Calculation of Child Support Guidelines, if neccessary
• E-filing of Agreement, if requested or required
• Filing of Mediation outcome to Court
• AFTER HOURS MEDIATIONS available at no additional charge!